Logistics Over the Shore

Throughout modern history the amphibious landing is considered the most difficult military operation to conduct. Amphibious operations are often conducted with little preparation time as the opportunity presents itself or as the sole axis of advance available to engage an enemy. Logistical support for amphibious landings is critical to the success of this operation due to its inherent offensive nature and operational scope. These requirements necessitate a logistics force ready to conduct offensive operations and able to sustain forces without impeding operations. Operation CHROMITE was the largest amphibious operation conducted after the drawdown of WWII. It was opposed and had similar numbers of forces likely to be employed in a contemporary environment. Operation BLUEBAT was unopposed and serves as a template for operations less than total war. Using historic examples of the requirements of amphibious operations such as CHROMITE and BLUEBAT, we can determine if the present capabilities of the United States Military are sufficient to conduct these operations. Many of the challenges such as seastate and bathymetry, limited area and means of supply as well as the consumption rate of supplies in the offense are concerns for the contemporary operational environment.